Christmas Eve two years ago found me preparing* for what I thought would probably be my last Christmas(*sleeping a lot and occasionally waking to boss the guys around)
Normally we would invite family round for Christmas dinner, lots of noise and a bit of chaos, but that year I wanted it to be just the four of us. Almost a year on the transplant list, without a single call and deteriorating day by day, I knew time with my lovely husband and sons was limited and I wanted to soak up every single second with them that I could. It was a different Christmas Day that year. There was secret tears and unspoken fears but there was also joy, peace and the echo of a whisper of hope that refused to be silenced; of a God given promise of breath, of life.
I received my call a week later on New Year’s Day at 5.20am A stranger had left me a gift, her family found courage in their darkest hour to allow that gift to be given, an amazing medical team assured that gift was received. On behalf of my family and myself I thank them once again.
As I am able to celebrate yet another Christmas, somewhere my donor family are remembering and hurting and I am so sorry for their pain and I pray, that through that pain they can hear their own whispers of hope; for a day when their pain will not be as sharp, when their memories will bring smiles not tears.
Christmas time is special but can also be so hard for many.
I pray you all know joy, peace and hope this Christmas and I thank you for your help and support over these past few months of losing and finding sheep. Please spare a thought for all those still waiting for their call and for those families brave enough to have given the precious gift of life this year.